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Why Do I Experience Frequent Diarrhea?
by Sarah Thompson
Oct. 26, 2021
Image Credit: Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock
From a young age, I’ve dealt with a sensitive stomach. I can recall days in childhood when I had to skip school due to various stomach pains. As I grew older, I realized that stress would often manifest in my digestive system. Whether it was the anxiety of performing in a school play or my intense fear of flying, my stomach was always the first to react.
However, things escalated after I became a mother. I’m not sure if it was due to hormonal shifts, aging, stress, or sleep deprivation—probably a mix of all of these—but there came a time when everything I ate seemed to trigger diarrhea. Even minor stressors would send me rushing to the bathroom, especially during those particularly exhausting mornings. Experiences related to PMS or ovulation were quite chaotic, and certain foods would wreak havoc on my gut, particularly those notorious for causing issues (like beans and onions).
At this point, I knew I had to seek medical help since the situation was becoming increasingly unmanageable. I dreaded going out for any length of time, worried about being caught without access to a restroom. The abdominal pain I experienced was intense—worse than my unmedicated childbirth.
After consultations with my primary care physician, a chiropractor, and a gastroenterologist, I was diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). While this diagnosis helped rule out more severe conditions, it also left me with few treatment options. I was advised to relax (not exactly groundbreaking advice) and to make some dietary adjustments, though specific recommendations were lacking.
Eventually, I found a dietitian specializing in IBS and digestive disorders. Through food journaling and elimination diets, I identified my triggers, which included all dairy products—common in cases of chronic diarrhea. Adopting a low FODMAP diet proved transformative; high amounts of beans, onions, and certain fruits were indeed damaging my gut.
It became clear that managing my anxiety—especially regarding my digestive problems—was crucial for regaining control. I returned to therapy and began meditating daily, both of which have significantly helped.
I’ve maintained a dairy-free, low FODMAP diet for several years and prioritize my mental health. While my gut isn’t flawless—stress can still trigger issues—I’ve learned what to avoid and how to restore balance.
I’ve shared my experiences openly, and I often receive messages from others struggling with similar issues. While I’m not a medical professional, I’ve gathered valuable insights about digestion, mental health, and nutrition that I’d like to share:
1. Obtain a Proper Diagnosis:
It’s essential to get a correct diagnosis rather than simply labeling your condition as IBS or a nervous stomach, especially if symptoms persist and disrupt your daily life. Conditions like food allergies, celiac disease, or other gut disorders such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease should be ruled out. You want to eliminate the possibility of more serious causes of chronic diarrhea.
2. Acknowledge Multiple Causes:
Chronic diarrhea can stem from various factors, including dietary habits, lifestyle choices, stress, hormonal changes, and medication use. Rather than focusing solely on diet, it’s important to consider the bigger picture and adopt a holistic approach.
3. Understand the Brain-Gut Connection:
It’s crucial to recognize that ongoing diarrhea isn’t merely psychological. A strong mind-gut connection exists, particularly for those with sensitive stomachs or IBS. If stress triggers gut issues, techniques like meditation, therapy, and anti-anxiety medication can help stabilize both your emotions and digestive health.
4. Seek Multiple Opinions:
Healthcare providers may not always be experts in gut health. It’s wise to consult a gastroenterologist rather than just a general practitioner. It might take several visits before finding a specialist who truly understands your situation, particularly in cases of IBS or sensitive stomachs.
5. Don’t Lose Hope:
I know it sounds cliché, but don’t give up. Many who experience chronic diarrhea accept it as a permanent part of life. They may feel embarrassed to seek help or overwhelmed by their symptoms. But living in constant discomfort is not necessary. You can find relief and deserve to feel well.
For more information on related topics, you can check out this useful resource on pregnancy and our other blog post on dealing with gut issues here. If you’re looking for authoritative insights on home insemination, Make a Mom has excellent resources available.
Summary
Experiencing frequent diarrhea can be distressing and disruptive. It’s essential to seek a proper diagnosis, understand the multiple factors contributing to gut health issues, and recognize the mind-gut connection. Don’t hesitate to seek multiple opinions and stay persistent in finding solutions. You deserve to live comfortably without the fear of frequent trips to the bathroom.
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